The Esztergom Basilica, also known as the Basilica of St. Stephen the King and the Cathedral of Esztergom, is a green-domed basilica located in Esztergom, Hungary. It is the largest church in Hungary and one of the most important religious buildings in the country.
Construction of the basilica began in 1822 and was completed in 1869. It stands at 100 meters (328 feet) tall and is visible from miles away. The interior of the basilica features beautiful artwork, including frescoes and stained glass windows, and a massive pipe organ.
The basilica also houses the largest ecclesiastical collection in Hungary, including a treasury of liturgical objects and vestments. Visitors can climb to the top of the basilica’s dome for a breathtaking view of the Danube River and the surrounding countryside.
The Esztergom Basilica is open to visitors daily, and admission is free. Visitors are asked to dress modestly and behave respectfully while inside the building. There are also guided tours available for visitors who want to learn more about the basilica’s history and architecture.
Esztergom green-domed Basilica history
The Esztergom Basilica, also known as the Basilica of St. Stephen the King and the Cathedral of Esztergom, is a Catholic basilica located in Esztergom, Hungary. It is the largest church in Hungary and one of the most important religious buildings in the country.
The basilica was built between 1822 and 1869, during the reign of King Francis I of Hungary. It was designed by architect Pál Kühnel, who drew inspiration from the basilicas of Rome and the Pantheon in Paris. The basilica’s green dome is one of the most recognizable symbols of Esztergom.
The basilica has played an important role in Hungarian history. It was the coronation site of several Hungarian kings, including St. Stephen I, the first king of Hungary. It was also the seat of the Hungarian archbishop and the center of the Hungarian Catholic Church until 1993.
During World War II, the basilica was heavily damaged by bombing and shelling. After the war, it underwent a massive restoration effort that lasted more than 50 years. Today, the basilica is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Hungary’s religious and cultural heritage.
The interior of the basilica is decorated with beautiful frescoes, stained glass windows, and sculptures. It also houses a large collection of religious artifacts, including the crown jewels of Hungary and the country’s oldest ecclesiastical library.
The basilica’s location on a hill overlooking the Danube River and the surrounding countryside makes it a breathtaking sight. Visitors can climb to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of the landscape.
How you can visit Esztergom green-domed Basilica
There are several ways to visit the Esztergom Basilica in Hungary:
- By car: The basilica is located in Esztergom, which is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Budapest. If you have a car, you can drive to the basilica and park in one of the nearby parking lots.
- By public transportation: Esztergom is accessible by train, bus, or boat from Budapest. You can take a train or bus from Budapest to Esztergom and then walk to the basilica, which is located in the center of town. You can also take a scenic boat ride along the Danube River from Budapest to Esztergom, which is a popular way to see the basilica and the surrounding countryside.
- Guided tour: If you want to learn more about the history and architecture of the basilica, you can join a guided tour. Many tour companies offer guided tours of the basilica, either as part of a larger sightseeing tour or as a standalone tour.
- Audio guide: The basilica offers audio guides that provide information about the building’s history, architecture, and artwork. The audio guides are available in several languages, including English.
- Admission: There is no admission fee to enter the basilica, but donations are appreciated. If you want to climb to the top of the dome for the panoramic view of the countryside, there is a small fee.
It’s worth noting that the basilica is an active place of worship, so visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully while inside the building.
The best time of the year to visit Esztergom green-domed Basilica
The best time of the year to visit the Esztergom Basilica would depend on your personal preferences and interests.
If you prefer mild weather and fewer crowds, the best time to visit would be during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is usually pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, which makes it easier to explore the basilica and the surrounding area.
If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, the summer months (June to August) may be the best time to visit. The weather is usually hot and sunny, and there are many festivals and events happening in Esztergom and the surrounding towns during this time.
Winter (December to February) can be a beautiful time to visit the basilica, as the area is often covered in snow, which creates a magical atmosphere. However, the weather can be quite cold, and some areas may be closed or have limited access due to the weather conditions.
Ultimately, the best time to visit the Esztergom Basilica depends on your personal preferences, schedule, and travel plans. Regardless of when you visit, the basilica is a breathtaking sight and a must-see attraction in Hungary.